Putting the Pieces Together
(St. Louis, MO) – Valparaiso’s journey into the Missouri Valley Conference hasn’t looked the same as Loyola Chicago’s. Each team came from the Horizon League, but quickly the Ramblers rose to national prominence and the Beacons have struggled. Injuries and transfers have hindered Valpo’s ability to succeed.
Head coach Matt Lottich doesn’t complain and maintains a competitive fire and the hope for better things. While Valpo has struggled in league play (35-56) it seems like they’re putting the pieces together.
All-League forward Ben Krikke is back along with the impressive Kobe King. Returning young guards surround those two efficient scorers and accomplished transfers dot the lineup in a way that looks more promising than past teams. King believes this year’s team members are a better fit than previous collections of Valpo players.
The Beacons have more size than recent teams and a greater collection of veteran players. Nick Edwards, Quinton Green are Division 2 grad-transfers and Jerome Palm and Ibra Bayu are Netherlands’ natives with good size and international playing experience.
Lottich and King tell us the Beacon coaching staff is putting the pieces together.
Returning sophomore guards Preston Ruedinger and Darius Deaveiro could play a key role in the Beacons’ hopes for climbing the Missouri Valley Conference power structure.
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Flooding, lightning strikes, etc. have cost @RacersHoops two home games. Had to play 'neutral site' tonight instead of at home and Wednesday's goes from home to away. Tough break for the Racers, and the whole area has been hit with difficulties. #FatherHarry
Murray State's scheduled home game Wednesday vs. Southern Illinois being moved to Banterra Center in Carbondale. #ValleyHoops
Gigantic game for @BradleyUMBB today in Des Moines. If they have a chance to catch @DrakeBulldogsMB, they have to win today. The Bulldogs can basically win the title today. @BustingBrackets breaks it all down. #FatherHarry https://bit.ly/3EGiVgi
Not rooting for any particular @ValleyHoops, but chaos is always fun. If things break certain ways, after today there could be a six-way tie for fifth place.
Fun to listen to @MLBLarry on the @SIU_Basketball/@BelmontMBB game tonight. Good job brother. #FatherHarry
